Multi-threaded drama comes together nicely

Writer-director Rodrigo Garcia ('Looking at Her' and 'Nine Lives') tells the story of three California women (played by the capable trio of Annette Bening, Kerry Washington and Naomi Watts) dealing with issues pertaining to, as the title overtly suggests, mothers and children. Check out Samuel L. Jackson, who in a supporting role does his best, most subtle work in years. Grade: B-plus.